When it comes to interior design, everyone has their preferences. There’s bound to be a certain look that you’re naturally attracted to and that makes you feel inspired. And the good news about interior design is that nothing has to be permanent, so the way your house looks right now isn’t the way it has to stay.

If you’ve been flipping through home design magazines and online looking for inspiration as of late, and you’ve come to the conclusion your home is lacking in character, then there are plenty of things you can do. Here are four beautiful ways to add character to your home.

Install an Intricate Ceiling Medallion

One thing that older homes are famous for is the lovely ceiling medallions in such spaces as the living room and even the bedroom. They instantly add interest to the space and they are the kind of feature that homeowners love to show off. The good news is that this is something homeowners can add and it can be done in a way that it looks like it was part of the home, and part of the original design.

This architectural detail is typically used in conjunction with a drop lighting fixture such as a chandelier or pendant light. They can be installed by you if you're somewhat handy, or you can hire a professional.

Replace Your Fireplace Mantel with an Antique Model

For those who have a fireplace in their home, you can also transform it into something beautiful with more character. Adding a mantel or hearth will make it appear older and as though it has a story behind it, even if you're in a newer build home. You want your fireplace to stand out for all the right reasons in the room. Marble, slate, tile, cast iron and wood are just some of the materials you'll be able to choose from. Shops such as Stonewoods make it possible for you to reimagine your fireplace.

Vintage Hardware Will Make a Big Statement

The hardware in your home is a really simple update that will bring instant character to the space. Get rid of all the modern or basic-looking hardware and replace them with vintage pulls and knobs. Doing this in the kitchen can give the illusion of brand-new cupboards and an even more customised look.

Get Strategic with Window Treatments

For those of you who love the look of high ceilings in more traditional and classic homes, you can create that same illusion in your house. It's all about strategic window covering placement. Instead of hanging drapes that fit with the window frame, install the curtain rod at the ceiling height and use full-length drapes.

By spanning ceiling to floor it makes the window appear much larger than it is, giving the room that beautiful character that you’re after. You are tricking the eye with this design update.

It’s all about putting on your thinking cap, getting creative and finding little areas that you can update in the home to give it more character.